Westminster City Council's Night Stars Volunteer

The Night Stars is a volunteer night-safety initiative run by Westminster City Council. Volunteers are there to help anyone who finds themselves in a vulnerable situation, whether they need water, someone to talk to, or a safe place to sober up. The program aims to provide a welcoming place for all and collaborate to ensure that Westminster's nightlife remains a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike. It is delivered across the West End, and focuses on areas such as Soho, Piccadilly, Leicester Square, and Embankment, and operates on Fridays from 7pm to 4am.

The role is highly flexible, but your aim will be to:

• Act as an ambassador for the night-time economy and interact with visitors and local businesses to create a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Provide information, advice and practical support to visitors and vulnerable people
• Signpost people to support services if required.
• Be part of the wider strategic partnership in the area which is supporting and protecting visitors. In other words, interacting with emergency services such as the police, ambulance services, BIDS, and council enforcement staff, to ensure that Westminster remains safe.
• Look after those who are unable to keep themselves safe, and support them to get home without coming to harm

Onboarding Requirements

• Enhanced DBS check - Carried out and paid for by WCC
• Reference checks
• 1 induction session
• 1 in-person training session

Training and support

• Alcohol and Drugs Awareness: Handling intoxication situations.
• Conflict Resolution: Managing aggression.
• Adult and Child Safeguarding: Ensuring safety and protection.
• Women's Vulnerability Awareness: Intervening in vulnerable situations.
• Anti-Sexual Harassment: Preventing and addressing harassment.
• Communication: Effective interaction techniques.
• Emotional Support: Assisting distressed individuals.
• First Aid: Basic emergency medical skills.
• Equipment Use: Proper handling and operation

These trainings ensure that volunteers are well-prepared to handle various situations effectively and safely.

Benefits to volunteers

• The satisfaction of knowing that you are making a difference to vulnerable people.
• Building self-confidence and the ability to work flexibly.
• Ability to undertake specific training and gain experience of supporting the vulnerable and conflict resolution.
• Opportunity to meet new people and learn more about London's night-time economy.
• Working as part of the team and wider strategic partnership for the night-time economy.
• Offers great experience to anyone considering a career in the social sciences, health or social care, medicine, public engagement, crime prevention or a career that requires effective communication, dynamic problem solving, and teamwork.